Importance Of Minerals For Our Body

Human body, like a machine needs an appropriate fuel to run properly. Vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients are the fuels consumed by human body.

To understand the role and importance of minerals for our body, it is necessary to be aware of the types of minerals and their effects. Minerals are essential to the human body, as they keep us healthy and functioning.

Foods are an essential source of these minerals, different foods contain different types of minerals. If rock salt is a wonderful source of sodium, calcium is in milk and eggs. Minerals are of two types namely major minerals (macrominerals) and trace minerals (microminerals).

The importance of minerals on our body depends on the balanced diet one take in. If we know which type of food contains what type of minerals, it would be easier to keep count on the minerals that being consumed.
Here are the types and the importance of minerals for our body.

Sodium:

It is a major mineral that is needed for nerve transmission, appropriate fluid balance and muscle contraction. Sodium is available in soy sauce, table salt and in some types of vegetables.

Calcium:

Calcium is a major mineral needed for strong teeth and bone health. The mineral is also required for muscle contraction and relaxation, blood pressure regulation, nerve functioning and a strong immune system. Milk and milk products and fishes are rich sources of calcium.

Phosphorus:

Phosphorous strengthens the bones and teeth, also maintains acid balance of the body. Poultry products, meat and milk are rich in phosphorous.

Magnesium:

Iron:

Iron is classified as a trace mineral, it is needed comparatively in small amount when compared to major minerals. Iron is a must for making RBC(Red Blood Corpuscles) count that carry oxygen throughout the human body and to increase energy and metabolic rate. Dry fruits, poultry products, shellfish, leafy greens, etc, are sources of iron that are required for your body.

Iodine:

Iodine is a micromineral that helps in the growth and proper development of the body and also enhances metabolism. Seafood, salt, dairy products, etc, are great sources of iodine.

Zinc:

Zinc is an vital mineralfor the human body, it helps in a proper development of the foetus. This mineral boosts sexual desire, sperm production, strong immunity and an overall growth of your body. Vegetables, whole grains, poultry products, etc, are rich sources of zinc.